Online Reporter
Remember Deketeke-Herald Correspondent
MARKETING students from the Women’s University in Africa (WUA) have initiated a community outreach programme dubbed “Love Gogo Campaign” in New Mabvuku aimed at providing essential support to the elderly and their grandchildren.
The campaign aligns with Zimbabwe’s Heritage-Based Education 5.0 model, emphasising the integration of academic learning with community service.
Tafadzwa Mwale, a first-year student, highlighted the campaign’s significance in addressing poverty in marginalised areas.
“This initiative serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent efforts needed to eradicate poverty in marginalised areas. It inspires us to take action and work together for a brighter future for our communities,” said Mwale.
As part of the campaign, two grandmothers, Mrs Violet Gwashure, commonly known as Gogo Smart and Mrs Rebecca Mazivise, received essential items including medication, clothing, food hampers and financial assistance for their grandchildren’s school fees.
Mrs Gwashure, the sole caregiver for her paralysed grandchild, expressed her gratitude.
“I have been struggling to provide for my grandchild’s needs, especially with his medical condition.
“This assistance brings much-needed relief. Every little bit helps and it allows me to focus on giving him a better future,” she said.
Similarly, Mrs Mazivise, who is now responsible for seven grandchildren, spoke about her daily challenges.
“Feeding them and ensuring they attend school has been a constant worry. This help is a blessing,” said Mrs Mazivise.
Following the tragic loss of her daughter, Mrs Mazivise faces numerous challenges, including caring for her 14-year-old granddaughter who recently gave birth.
“It’s been incredibly hard. I feel the weight of the world on my shoulders, but I must keep going for my family,” she said.
The Love Gogo Campaign exemplifies the principles of Zimbabwe’s Education 5.0 model, which emphasises teaching, research, community service, innovation and industrialisation.
This educational framework encourages students to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges, fostering social responsibility and practical problem-solving skills.
Ward 21 Councillor, Mr Alexio Nyakudya, commended the students’ efforts.
“This initiative exemplifies the spirit of Education 5.0, where learning transcends the classroom to make a tangible impact in our communities,” he said.
Plans are underway to replicate similar programmes across the ward to effectively address local needs and combat issues such as teenage pregnancies.
The campaign not only provided immediate relief to the beneficiaries, but also served as a practical learning experience for the students.
As Zimbabwe continues to implement the Heritage-Based Education 5.0 curriculum, initiatives like the ‘Love Gogo Campaign’ illustrate how academic institutions can contribute meaningfully to societal well-being, aligning educational outcomes with the nation’s Vision 2030 goals.
